Hibernian Radio with Mike "Houli" Houlihan

This week on Hibernian Radio: We welcome back a fan favorite and honorary Irishman, Junior Guerra, a law enforcement veteran with over 28 years of experience in narcotics, SWAT, and undercover federal operations. This powerful episode dives deep into the realities of modern policing and the challenges faced by those on the front lines. Junior shares honest and emotional reflections on the mental health crisis within law enforcement and the importance of providing real support to officers. He recounts his firsthand experiences dealing with human trafficking, cartel activity, and the ongoing migrant crisis. His stories offer a rare glimpse into the difficult and dangerous situations officers face every day.We also explore the growing use of technology in policing, including the role of body cameras and artificial intelligence. Junior opens up about his current work in private security, where he provides executive protection services, and talks about his deep belief in spiritual forces, shaped by intense moments on the job. Throughout the conversation, Junior reflects on his Mexican-American roots and his commitment to helping the next generation of officers navigate the complex landscape of modern policing. Hibernian Radio is proudly sponsored by Local 150 IUOE, Madden Funds, Fox’s Pizza, Flood Brothers Disposal, and The Tax Defenders. Their continued support helps us bring you the voices and stories of Irish First Responders and those who serve our communities with honor.

This week on Hibernian Radio Hour, host Paddy Houlihan welcomes musical guest Kevin Flynn, the Chicago-born singer-songwriter and Houlihan proclaimed acoustic messiah of the Midwest. Raised on the Northwest Side and forged in the fires of the Irish American experience, Kevin joins Paddy for a wide-ranging conversation about music, family, growing up in Catholic school, and the long road from garage bands in Park Ridge to headlining sets at Fitzgerald’s and more. Kevin shares heartfelt reflections on his musical path, influenced by everyone from Lead Belly and Robert Johnson to the Carter Family and the Pogues. He also delivers three original songs live in studio including “Set the Boy Free,” “Sing for Your Dinner,” and “Move On Ahead”—each packed with poetic grit and working-class soul. Along the way, Paddy and Kevin trade stories about balancing art and parenthood, the nuances of the Chicago music scene, and the creative freedom that comes from letting go of what’s expected. Brought to you by the steadfast support of Madden Funds, Local 150, Fox’s Pizza, Flood Brothers Disposal, and our newest sponsor Joe Hanley and The Tax Defenders. Tune in for an intimate and inspiring episode featuring a troubadour who proves you don’t need a record deal to make music that matters. Only on Hibernian Radio Hour.

This week, Hibernian Radio host Paddy Houlihan welcomes Caitlin Brennan, CEO of the 100 Club of Illinois, for an eye-opening and deeply important conversation. With nearly 60 years of service, the 100 Club supports families of fallen first responders and is now leading the charge in mental health advocacy across Illinois.

Caitlin shares her powerful personal journey, from her South Side Irish roots and post-9/11 calling to public service, to her global work in emergency management and trauma-informed care. As a subject matter expert in critical incident response, Caitlin sheds light on the high suicide rates among first responders, particularly in Chicago, and the urgent need for preventative mental health measures, legislative support, and year-round wellness resources.

She walks us through the evolution of the 100 Club’s mission, from financial and educational assistance for families of the fallen to confidential support tools for active-duty police, fire, and EMS personnel. Caitlin also outlines how the organization is working closely with agency leaders, unions, and policymakers to provide better support systems and remove the stigma surrounding mental health in these high-stress professions.

It is an essential listen for anyone who believes in backing the brave men and women who keep our communities safe.

Take Action:

Visit 100ClubIL.org to learn more

Become a member or donate to support their mission

Follow the 100 Club on social media for upcoming events and initiatives

If you or someone you know is a first responder in need, reach out for support

Proudly sponsored by Fox’s Pizza, Flood Brothers Disposal, and Madden Funds.

This week on Hibernian Radio, host Paddy Houlihan takes on one of the most urgent and often overlooked issues facing Chicago law enforcement: the silent epidemic of police suicides. With more than 50 CPD officers lost in the past decade, Paddy welcomes two experienced voices who are working to bring change—Gene Roy, former Chief of Detectives for the Chicago Police Department, and Brendan McCrudden, a longtime officer now serving as Director of Development at The Well Resource Center.

Gene and Brendan share powerful personal stories of loss that led them to become advocates for mental health support in the law enforcement community. They discuss the emotional toll of the job, the lack of trust in internal support systems, and the cultural stigma that often prevents officers from seeking help. The conversation underscores the importance of peer support, chaplain services, and confidential access to qualified mental health professionals.

A central focus of the episode is The Well Resource Center, a nonprofit organization that provides free mental health services, peer support programs, and wellness events to first responders and their families. Brendan shares updates on the Center’s expansion efforts to open a new location on the Southwest Side of Chicago, as well as the growing need for more licensed therapists to meet demand.

Listeners are encouraged to support these vital efforts and spread the word about available resources, including the Haymarket Center’s First Responder Retreat and the Northern Illinois Critical Incident Stress Management Team. The episode closes with a call for stronger leadership within the department, continued community support, and a reminder that seeking help is a sign of strength.

This conversation offers both hope and urgency as it amplifies the voices working to create a healthier, more compassionate future for Chicago’s law enforcement officers.

Learn more or donate at https://www.thewellrc.org/

Proudly sponsored by:

Flood Brothers Disposal

Fox’s Pizza

Madden Funds

Local 150 

Hibernian Radio Hour #321: The Battle for North Riverside’s Firehouse

This week on Hibernian Radio, we welcome retired North Riverside firefighter Austin Nicholl and filmmaker Colin Hughes, the creative force behind the gripping new documentary film Fire Department, Inc. — a powerful exposé on the privatization fight that rocked a small Illinois fire department and the union brothers who stood their ground.

Austin recounts his 24 years on the job, the bruising eight-year war with village leadership, and how a red light ticket sent young Colin down the rabbit hole that led to his first feature-length film. Together, they dive into the legal battles, political betrayals, and union solidarity that defined a generation of North Riverside firefighters.

We also discuss Austin’s books — including Smile On Your Brother and Expecting to Fly — and how music and writing helped him heal post-retirement.

Special thanks to our sponsors: Madden Funds, Local 150, Fox’s Pizza, and Flood Brothers Disposal. And don’t miss the final tribute from Mike Houlihan, plus our ongoing push to support the 11th Annual Irish American Movie Hooley. Donations welcome at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-to-hibernian-st-patricks-day–2025

This week on Hibernian Media… Paddy Houlihan sits down for a one-on-one with retired Cook County Sheriff’s Police legend Jeff Lange, who brings 30 years of gritty, front-line law enforcement experience to the mic. From nightclub DJ on Division Street to undercover narcotics officer chasing some of Chicago’s most dangerous criminals, Jeff’s story is a masterclass in street smarts, survival, and service.

Lange walks us through his early years at the jail, his path into the Sheriff’s Police and evolution into a trusted deep-cover agent working everything from high-level drug buys to wiretap cases. He shares war stories from his time in the MEG unit, dives into the details of the Michael Gargiulo case, and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Palatine Brown’s Chicken mass murder investigation—including the infamous piece of chicken that helped crack the case.

Now serving as First Vice President of the Emerald Society of Illinois, Jeff also reflects on his days as an instructor at the Cook County Sheriff’s Academy and the joy of mentoring a new generation of officers. He speaks candidly about the importance of deconfliction in undercover work, the challenges of protecting crime scenes, and the lasting impact of teaching.

If you care about justice, Irish heritage, and real-deal stories from the field, this is one you don’t want to miss.

Proudly presented by Fox’s Pizza, Flood Bros. Disposal, Local 150 and Madden Funds.

This week on Hibernian Radio Hour, we welcome back two legends of Chicago’s Irish American community—Tom “Crash” McKenna and his brother Dennis—longtime members of the Emerald Society and living proof that cops really do tell the best stories.

Hosts Mike and Paddy Houlihan guide this unforgettable conversation filled with laughter, memories, and a few outrageous tales you won’t believe (but will definitely want to hear again).

Tom, a proud member of the Shannon Rovers, and Dennis, a Vietnam veteran and former Air Force man, take us on a journey through their days growing up in St. Theodore’s Parish, attending St. Rita High School, and serving the city of Chicago as police officers. From tales of the 1968 Democratic National Convention to Tom’s time in major accident investigation, these guys have seen it all—and lived to laugh about it.

We hear about Dennis playing in a high school band with Ray Manzarek of The Doors, their shared love of cop bars, and post-retirement adventures like Dennis’ gig as a Chicago tour guide. There’s also a healthy dose of reflection, as the brothers share some deeply personal stories from the force, reminding us that behind the badge is a beating heart—and a sharp Irish wit.

From goodwill to grief, from military service to mass transit mishaps, this episode is a full tour of Chicago, Irish pride, and the brotherhood that binds us all.

As always, Hibernian Radio is brought to you by our loyal sponsors:

Local 150 – Powering Chicaog
Fox’s Pizza – Serving up tavern-cut comfort
Flood Brothers Disposal – Proud supporters of our Irish heroes
Madden Funds – Helping keep our legacy strong

Hey listeners! Buckle up for an epic ride with Joe McKittrick – Swords, Co. Dublin native, banking and treasury professional, and Chicago’s ultimate Irish community connector. In this wild ride of an interview, Joe takes us from dairy farms to trading floors, sharing stories that’ll make you laugh, cheer, and maybe pour a pint. We dive deep into Joe’s journey: coming to America, navigating the crazy world of the Chicago Board of Trade, and founding the Ireland Network – a powerhouse organization connecting Irish professionals across the U.S. But wait, there’s more! Joe’s latest triumph? The first-ever Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Irish Village that drew nearly 80,000 people to Pioneer Square. Brought to you by our awesome sponsors – Madden Funds, Local 150, Fox’s Pizza, and Flood Brothers Disposal – this episode is a masterclass in Irish hustle, community building, and pure Chicago spirit. From supporting women-owned Irish businesses to creating cultural experiences that showcase modern Ireland, Joe McKittrick is proof that with charm, hard work, and a bit of Irish magic, anything is possible. Tune in and get inspired!

Lt. Ray McInerney: A Candid Journey Through 32 Years of Chicago Policing

This week on Hibernian Radio, host Paddy Houlihan sits down with Lt. Ray McInerney, a seasoned law enforcement veteran whose 32-year career with the Chicago Police Department reads like a gripping crime novel. Ray started his journey at Cook County Jail before joining CPD in 1991, eventually serving in patrol, narcotics, gang units, and specialized gun teams. He later took on the role of Deputy Chief in Dolton, until a serious on-the-job injury led to his retirement.

In this no-holds-barred conversation, Ray opens up about the evolution of gang activity in Chicago and how the rise of social media has transformed the way crimes are committed—and solved. He shares unforgettable stories from his years in the field, from tracking down violent offenders to navigating the challenges of gun interdiction in some of the city’s toughest neighborhoods. His insight into the criminal justice system is as sharp as it is sobering, especially when addressing the rising suicide rates among officers, the plummeting morale within the ranks, and the uphill battle in holding young offenders accountable.

Beyond the badge, Ray is a proud South Sider with strong Irish roots in County Mayo. He’s been married to his wife Maureen for 26 years, is the father of two daughters, and remains active in the Irish-American community through organizations like the Gaelic Fire Brigade and the Royal Order of Hibernians. A regular traveler to Ireland, Ray brings both a street-smart edge and a deep cultural pride to everything he does.

Thanks to sponsors Madden Funds, Local 150 Operating Engineers, Fox’s Pizza, and Flood Brothers Disposal for supporting another powerful episode.

Tune in for an unfiltered, powerful look into the life and legacy of a man who has seen it all—and still believes in the mission.

🎧 Listen now on Global Irish Radio, Apple Podcastsor at hibernianradio.org

Hibernian Radio welcomes John O’Connor, a retired Chicago Police Sergeant with a rich South Side Irish heritage. John shares his remarkable journey from growing up in St. Clair parish to serving in the Chicago Police Department for over 25 years, and now teaching psychologyand coaching football at Mount Carmel High School. With a career as diverse as Chicago itself, John brings a unique perspective to education. As he notes, the transition from law enforcement to teaching isn’t as different as you might think. “The similarities between the Chicago Police Department and Mount Carmel are overwhelming,” John explains. Mount Carmel Vice President Bill Nolan has been instrumental to my transitioning from the police and even joked on my first day, “this isn’t the police department, you have to stay here for the entire day” – a sentiment that perfectly lampoons the CPD and John’s lifelong commitment to service and community. “Every morning rain, snow, cold or cold Bill and I stand our post in front of the school to make sure the buses can pull in and our students arrive safely. Everywhere I have worked people are still the same!” The episode also explores John’s family history, including his grandfather’s immigration from Ireland and his family’s deep roots in law enforcement and public service. From walking the beat to coaching football, John’s story is a testament to the power of dedication, mentorship, and character building. A compelling story of family, service, and dedication, John O’Connor embodies the spirit of Chicago’s Irish community. Special thanks to our sponsors  making this episode possible: Flood Brothers Disposal, Madden Funds, Local 150 Operating Engineers and Fox’s Pizza!